Papal Mass in Glasgow to use Latin, Vatican master of ceremonies says

Pope Benedict XVI’s master of ceremonies has said that the Pontiff will recite significant parts of the papal Mass at Bellahouston Park in Glasgow in Latin.

“For all the Masses said in the UK the Preface and the Canon will be said in Latin,” Msgr. Guido Marini told The Herald. “What the Holy Father intends by using Latin is to emphasize the universality of the faith and the continuity of the Church.”

The Canon precedes and follows the Consecration in the liturgy. According to The Herald, Pope Benedict will use a Latin translation of the ordinary Roman Missal, also called the Novus Ordo.

Msgr. Marini also informed The Herald that some of the recently approved English translations of the Roman Missal will also be used for the first time at the Bellahouston Mass.

While controversy has resulted from claims that some Scottish bishops opposed returning to the old liturgy, Scottish composer James MacMillan dismissed the dispute.

“Vatican II was never intended to do away with mass in Latin,” he commented. “Contrary to what certain activists are trying to claim, neither Latin nor choral music have ever been banned.”

MacMillan has set parts of the English-language Mass to music for the Bellahouston Mass.

Archdiocese of Glasgow spokesman Ronnie Convery said it is possible that the Pope’s use of the Latin liturgy may “reawaken” interest in the traditional music of the Church.

“We are completely relaxed about it, and support it,” Convery said, according to The Herald.